Statistical analysis of reinforcement characterization in sic particle reinforced Al matrix composites

The characterization of reinforcement in 15% SiC particles reinforced Al matrix composites processed by powder metallurgy route was studied by statistical method. During the analysis, a new approach for the estimation of the characterization of reinforcement was presented. The mathematic software MATLAB was used to calculate the area and perimeter of reinforcement, in which the image processing technique was applied. Based on the calculation, the fractal dimension, shape factor, reinforcement size distribution and reinforcement distribution were investigated. The results show that the reinforcement shape is similar to rectangle; the reinforcement size distribution is broad with the range of 1-12 μm; the topography of reinforcement is smooth; and the reinforcement distribution is inhomogeneous. Furthermore, the cell model based on the statistical characterization was established and tested.